Medicare dictates health needs

To the editor:

For many years I have used a common blood pressure medication called 'Amlodipine Besylate 5 mg” twice a day. Around Jan. 1, I received a letter from Medicare stating specifically they would not approve this for twice-a-day. I called Medicare and was told that if the doctor wrote that this was needed they would process it. Well, when I recently attempted to refill my prescription I was told 'no' as Medicare won't authorize it. I went to my doctor's office, his nurse called Medicare to 'no avail” but they would authorize a once-a-day of 10 mg. The nurse suggested this was the best alterative and I could cut them in half for twice-a-day use; however, they crumble when I cut them (I use a pill cutter). Since these Medicare administrators want to dictate my health needs, would it be possible to purchase these pills in Washington, D.C. and have one of those smart 'political doctors” that enacted this system cut them for me? This seems a little ridiculous.

My maternal grandfather died from a heart attack at age 58 as a result of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. I appreciate the care and concern of my doctor.

Glen W. Hankemeier

Marion